Client Spotlight – Education Outside

Education Outside (“EO”) is a non-profit organization committed to advancing science in public schools, outdoors, since 2011. The organization currently engages 55 AmeriCorps members who work full-time at 55 Bay Area public elementary schools to bring nature and science directly into the hands of more than 20,000 students. That includes more than half of all elementary students in San Francisco Unified School District! Having grown rapidly, EO currently has over 80 personnel including AmeriCorps members and staff and is hoping to grow both within and beyond California borders.

What does the program aim to achieve?

The advancement of science in public schools! EO is working toward a future in which all children—regardless of race, class, or geography—have positive early experiences practicing science and connecting to the natural world. Through EO’s work, future generations will grow up to be scientifically and environmentally literate, therefore equipped to tackle the pressing environmental challenges of our time.

How does it work?

An AmeriCorps member is placed at each partner school to teach engaging, standards-based science curriculum in outdoor learning classrooms during school hours. All instructors are AmeriCorps service members who undergo a competitive application process and 300 hours of training in preparation for the program. Members have a background in science, environmental education, agriculture, nutrition, and working with children. Each instructor makes a 2-year commitment, and after the term is over, Education Outside replaces them with a new instructor ensuring ease of transition and continued support for the partner school.

How is the program funded?

Education Outside relies on funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service, generous corporate sponsors and individual donors, and Board Member support. City Picnic, EO’s biggest fundraising event of the year, is right around the corner this April.

Education Outside is a client of Payroll Systems. We administer their payroll, HRIS, and benefits. We spoke with their HR Manager, Sara Blumenfrucht to better understand Payroll and HR Challenges they face. “Being a non-profit organization with AmeriCorps employees, we must provide detailed reporting each month to government agencies. These are easily extracted from our payroll job costing system with Payroll Systems,” stated Sara.

If you’re interested in getting involved, whether you’d like to become a sponsor, volunteer, or want to join the team, visit their website for more information here.

This article provides general information and shouldn’t be construed as legal or HR advice. Since employment laws may change over time and can vary by location and industry, please consult a lawyer or HR expert for advice specific to your business. You can also contact Payroll Systems to inquire about our HR support services.